Fund Spotlight: Lemmer Family Scholarship Fund

When describing the Village of Shepherd, two things commonly come to mind: it is often referred to as the “sweetest little town anywhere around,” and it is home to the annual Maple Syrup Festival. Another lasting impression is the impact of longtime music educator Claude Lemmer, whose dedication to students and the community has enriched Shepherd for generations.

For 37 years, Mr. Lemmer built an award-winning music program and mentored countless students through the Shepherd Middle School and High School band programs. During this time, his bands earned district and state honors and were invited to play at various festivals throughout Michigan. For more than 40 years, he also served as the director of the Central Michigan Area Concert Band (CMACB), a community ensemble made up of musicians of all ages across Central Michigan. Mr. Lemmer retired from his role as director but continues to perform with the band today.

Every year, Mr. Lemmer has been actively involved in the Maple Syrup Festival, either leading his middle school and high school bands along the parade route or performing with the CMACB. In recognition of his lasting contributions to the Shepherd community, he was honored as Grand Marshal of the 68th Maple Syrup Festival Grand Parade.

Another way that Mr. Lemmer continues to give back to the students and the music programs he helped develop is through the establishment of a scholarship fund at the Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation. In 2009, he created Lemmer Family Scholarship Fund to support Shepherd Middle School and High School band students in improving their instrumental proficiency through private lessons, camps, and other musical growth experiences. Through this fund, Mr. Lemmer continues to invest in the next generation of musicians.

To donate to the Lemmer Family Scholarship Fund, visit Lemmer Family Scholarship Fund - Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation. Interested in starting a fund of your own? Reach out to us today.